Instructions for Visiting Astronomers

In terms of instrument configuration and use, there is no difference between service and visitor mode for HAWK-I.

Your observations in Paranal have a higher potential of scientific success if, before travelling, you

have read the User Manual,

know how to use P2PP,

are able to use the ETC to estimate the needed exposure time (DIT)

have a defined observing strategy

have a possible backup plan (should your source not be observable, e.g. because of pointing restrictions due to wind).

Once at the observatory, you will receive support from an astronomer, of the Paranal Science Operations (PSO) team,
to prepare your observations; but you can contact us anytime beforehand for any pending question.

Weather permitting PSO will take twilight sky flats according to the Calibration Plan,
but will concentrate on the flats you need if upon arrival you inform us about the filters you will use.

Be aware that when the outside relative humidity is above 50% the protective shutter
of the entrance window must be closed to protect the latter from condensation, and HAWKI
observations are thus impossible. This is particularly a problem between December and March
due to a weather condition called the "Altiplanic Winther."

General information about visitor mode observations can be found in this page .
For any change of observing plan compared to the approved proposal, please see this page.